After every match, each team captain submits not only a game score but also a spirit score. The match results are then finalized by a league official, given a consensus in game scoring and the absence of a problematic spirit grading.

The current scoring system starts at a value of ‘10’, which is representative of exemplary spirit. The overall score then reduces with negative modifiers, based on the answers to questions which evaluate the timeliness, rules knowledge, sportsmanship, and overall spirit of the opposing team. The current set of questions is provided below. Furthermore, captains whom rate opposing teams poorly are asked to provide rationale, which should facilitate the formation of a pro-active response from an objective TUC Leadership. We also stress the provision of positive spirit comments.

Via this system, the TUC leadership hopes to achieve an objective but more personalized view of each team. It is hoped that highly spirited individuals and teams can be recognized and rewarded, that poorly spirited individuals and teams can be provided with the necessary training and support, and that punitive measures can efficiently reduced the risks which are consequent of dangerous acts.

Please note that TUC greatly welcomes feedback on the content and structure of its Spirit Rating system. To provide feedback we encourage you to write to us at spirit@tuc.org. We encourage captains to assign a co-captain who assists in regular scoring and spirit scoring.

In the Fall 2007, we removed one of the questions because we felt it was a bit repetitious. The new system uses 4 base questions and as always your comments are appreciated. Here is the Spirit Questionnaire that captains answer when entering scores:

Spirit Questionnaire (choose one of the following for each question)

1. Our opponents had a full line and were ready to play:
   • at the official start time
   • less than five minutes late
   • more than five minutes late
2. Our opponents' rules knowledge was:
   • excellent
   • acceptable, or they were willing to learn
   • poor, or they weren't interested in learning
   • nonexistant
3. Our opponents' sportsmanship was:
   • excellent
   • acceptable
   • poor
4. Ignoring the score and based on the opponent's spirit of the game, did your team enjoy this game?
   • all of my players did
   • most of my players did
   • some of my players did
   • none of my players did
5. Do you have any comments on this game you would like to bring to the coordinator's attention?

5 Point Spirit Scoring

There is also a standard 5-point Spirit score that we used in our Leagues up until 2006. We will continue to use these rules of Spirit scoring for events outside of TUC league such as the Mid-Season Tournament, where online capability is not an option. These 5-point Spirit Scoring Guidelines are available in a PDF file.

Steam Whistle Spirit of the Game - Brought to You by Steam Whistle Brewery